sump pump vent
My sump pump drainage system was not set up correctly. The 1 1/2 inch PVC pipe runs outside the house, into the ground, and is connected to the storm sewer. I understand it is supposed to drain into a larger pipe (3 or 4 inches) which would allow an air space and more room. Since there is no air venting in the system, every time the pump operates, an airlock or vacuum is created when the water tries to escape to the street. This results in terribly loud noises around my pump as the system is gasping for air to fill the vacuum. Some plumbers have suggested that I replace the 1 1/2 inch pipe outside my house with the larger 3 or 4 inch pipe. This involves excavation and much expense. I am looking for a cheaper solution. Everything about the 1 1/2 inch pipe I have works, except for the vacuum that is created. I am looking for a product or idea that will allow all the water to get through the pipes, and then allow for air to get in when the pump stops to break the vacuum. Is there such a product or quick fix for this problem?
You put the small hole in to vent it. You place the hole outside of the house where the elbow that turns the pipe to the ground. There is not much pressure if the line is clear. No water comes out of mine but it does empty into a larger pipe. If the line becomes blocked then there would be pressure but without the hole there would be nowhere for the water to go anyway. So if you aim the hole away from the house you will have an emergency bypass if the pipe clogs. I do not see why the pipe would clog since it is relatively clean water.
